Marginalised women too often don’t receive the healthcare they need. This project works in two post-conflict countries, to ensure marginalised women know their health rights, can voice their needs and get better healthcare.
While the countries are far apart, the women in Ratanakiri in Cambodia, and Ayacucho in Peru, suffer from similar discrimination, geographical remoteness, cultural barriers and poverty.
Village volunteers work with women and girls, researching, training, educating and campaigning for their rights. They also make them aware of services available at health centres.
Volunteers also work with traditional birth attendants and healers to incorporate modern and indigenous practices. Staff are trained to be aware of cultural sensitivities of women from Ratanakiri in Cambodia and Ayacucho in Peru.
Women and health workers discuss their needs and rights in a forum which then helps engage government and campaign for better health care.
Peru has one of the highest rates of maternal deaths in all of Latin America. Only 13.7% of women in Ratanakiri, Cambodia have access to skilled medical assistance during childbirth. The rate of maternal deaths and illnesses in Ratanakiri are almost twice that of lowland areas.
Communities learn about key maternal health issues through village meetings, peer education activities and health promotion campaigns.
This project aims to use its research and findings to influence local policies and so improve women’s rights and access to quality healthcare.
Last modified: 28/06/2011
